Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum (ACC)

WHAT IS AGENESIS OF THE CORPUS CALLOSUM (ACC)?

The Corpus Callosum is the nerve fibres that connect the left and the right side of the brain. Agenesis means absent. Therefore an Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum means an absence of the nerve fibres that connect the two hemispheres in the brain. Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum (ACC) is a rare condition. Other connected conditions are Hypogenesis (part formation of the Corpus Callosum), Dysgenesis (malformation) and Hypoplasia (underdevelopment).

WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF SOMEONE WITH AGENESIS OF THE CORPUS CALLOSUMN (ACC)?

The characteristics of a child with ACC vary greatly between children. There are however some common features. Physical features include impaired vision, poor motor coordination, low muscle tone, delays in motor milestones (such as sitting and walking), delayed toilet training, chewing and swallowing difficulties and a low perception of pain.

Children with ACC can also experience seizures, impaired hearing, abnormal head and facial features and learning difficulties.

Generally, children with ACC enjoy being around other people but experience some social difficulties which is why this condition can sometimes lead to a misdiagnosis of Autism. Other characteristics include a lack of self awareness, hyperactivity, obsessive or compulsive behaviour, social immaturity and an inability to take the perspective of others. Early speech and language development can also be delayed.

IS THERE ANY TREATMENT FOR ACC?

There is no single treatment for ACC although there are some things which can help to manage some of the symptoms. This can include Early Intervention, such as Speech and Language Therapy (SaLT), Occupational Therapy (OT) and Physiotherapy (PT).

WHAT IS THE PROGNOSIS OF A CHILD WITH ACC?

The prognosis for a child with ACC depends on the extent and severity of the malformation of the Corpus Callosum. In most children, ACC does not cause death and any learning difficulties do not worsen. In fact, many children with the disorder have average intelligence and can lead near normal lives.

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